Why I Chose the Wellness Space: My Journey Through Shame, Stigma, and HIV Advocacy

By Karla Scipio, RN, MPH

May 29, 205

I didn’t just choose wellness. Wellness chose me—through pain, purpose, and powerful moments that shaped my calling. I graduated from nursing school during a time when HIV was still surrounded by fear and ignorance. We learned about gonorrhea and syphilis, but trichomoniasis and chlamydia were barely mentioned. HIV was whispered about, if mentioned at all.

I became a nurse, because I almost died during childbirth. That near-death experience shifted my life’s direction. I didn’t want to diagnose others from afar. I wanted [read more]

Dating Life as a College Student – Episode One

By: Kamoria Reese

May 25, 2025

In this new audio blog series, I interview fellow college students to learn how they stay safe dating and the biggest concerns they face. I hear honest insights into the challenges of dating in college and what they desire in a partner. They also offer practical advice and describe their dating lives in just three words. Together, their experiences and perspectives offer valuable insight, support and relatability for anyone dating in today’s world.

The first interview is with Ashley, a college [read more]

Dating Life as a College Student – Episode Two

By: Kamoria Reese

June 4, 2025

In this newly launched audio blog series, I engage with fellow university students to delve into their approaches to safe dating and the primary concerns they encounter. They share candid reflections on the complexities of college dating and describe the qualities they seek in a partner. Additionally, they provide advice and describe their dating experiences in just three words. Together, their narratives offer meaningful insights, support, and a sense of connection for anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.

The second interview [read more]

My Empowering Experience Working on the Empowerment Grant

By: Kamoria Reese

July 10, 2025

I am a sophomore majoring in Biology on the Pre-Med track, and I want to share my journey working with the Empowerment Grant this spring semester. This opportunity not only gave me professional experience, but also personal growth that I truly value.

While working on this grant, I’ve gained a lot of valuable skills. I learned how to manage my time more effectively, take constructive criticism with an open mind and, most importantly, I learned not to be afraid to speak up. Looking [read more]

When the White Coat Changes: Lessons from a Transition in HIV Care

By Afrekete*

July 3, 2025

Recently, when my trusted doctor retired, it stirred emotions that I was not prepared for. As a Black woman aging with HIV, losing a provider who had become part of my healing journey felt like a gut punch, because I did not always have compassionate care.

After I was first diagnosed, I was under the care of a highly regarded White male doctor. His reputation was stellar, but for more than three years, I never reached undetectable. Every month, my labs T-cell count hovered between 365–400, and [read more]

When A Relationship Ends…Questions and Worries Begin

By Tia Camille

August 20, 2025

I grew up in the 1970s, and my world was surrounded by images, stories, movies, television shows and real-life married women. For me, and most children of that time, the way of the world trained us to think marriage was the pinnacle point of love. Without it, you’d question whether you really ever found it.

The problem? No one ever really talked about the part when marriages don’t work like mine. Facing the final proceedings in my divorce in a few weeks means this relationship that lasted more than [read more]

7 Ways to Practice Safe Sex

May 10, 2025

By: Kamoria Reese 

Want to take control of your sexual health? Here are seven simple, effective ways to practice safe sex. Whether you’re in a committed relationship or exploring new experiences, these tips empower you to stay safe without sacrificing pleasure.  [read more]

5 things to Do if you Think You Contracted HIV or a STD 

May 1, 2025

By: Kamoria Reese 

If you’ve ever had a scare about HIV or an STD, you’re not alone. Prevention is the best way to stay confident and clear of your status, but knowing what to do when you have doubts can make all the difference. Acting quickly and responsibly not only protects your health, but also the well-being of others. These [read more]